Darrell Royal passed away earlier today at the age of 88. Evan Smith interviewed him for Texas Monthly Talks in 2004. When the show originally aired, Evan’s into said this about Royal:
National Football Hall of Fame member Darrell Royal is the winningest coach in University of Texas football history. Royal took over as head coach in December of 1956, and achieved success almost instantaneously. The team went from a 1-9 season in 1956 to a 6-3-1 season in 1957. In Royal’s 20 years as as head coach, UT never had a losing season. With Royal at the helm, UT won three national championships, won or shared 11 Southwest Conference championships, and made 16 bowl appearances. Royal is also known as a great innovator. He introduced two key changes to college football — the “flip-flop” and the wishbone formation backfield. Royal is also known for his commitment to the academic success of his players. He was the first coach in the nation to employ an academic counselor, and four out of five of his players went on to earn their degree. Starting in 1962, Royal also served as athletics director for UT. He retired from coaching in 1976, and remained director of athletics until 1980. He now serves as special assistant to the university president on athletic programs.” – Evan Smith, Texas Monthly Talks, Broadcast 5.13.04